Effect of Nurse-initiated X-ray for Patients in Emergency Department

Abstract

Introduction:

Emergency departments (EDs) face significant pressures to improve efficiency and patient care quality. Nurse-initiated X-ray (NIXR) protocols have emerged as a potential solution to enhance diagnostic processes and reduce wait times. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the impact of NIXR protocols on patient outcomes, resource utilization, and overall ED efficiency.

Methods:

A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases, focusing on interventional studies and clinical trials from the last 5 years up to 2022. Inclusion criteria were limited to studies examining the effects of NIXR in adult emergency department settings, published in English. The review excluded qualitative studies, editorials, and research not directly assessing NIXR protocols. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed systematically to evaluate the evidence.

Results:

Eleven studies were included, demonstrating a broad range of sample sizes (50 to over 1,000 participants) and intervention types. The main findings revealed significant improvements associated with NIXR protocols: median reduction in X-ray wait times by up to 25 minutes, diagnostic accuracy increased by 20%, and patient satisfaction improved by 10% to 30%. These interventions also contributed to a 15% to 25% reduction in overall ED length of stay.

Conclusions:

Nurse-initiated X-ray protocols significantly enhance emergency department efficiency and patient care quality. By reducing wait times, increasing diagnostic accuracy, and improving patient satisfaction, NIXR protocols offer a viable strategy for EDs aiming to optimize operations and patient outcomes. Future research should focus on standardizing intervention protocols and exploring their implementation in diverse healthcare settings.